From Rethymno: Arkadi, Margarites, Sfendoni Cave, and Axos

Exploring Crete can feel like a journey through time and tradition, and this full-day tour from Rethymno offers a taste of that authentic island spirit. Covering historic sites, traditional crafts, stunning underground caves, and local flavors, it’s an immersive experience that balances sightseeing with genuine local encounters.

One of the standout features is the chance to see Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of resistance and resilience, up close and personal. The journey also takes you into the heart of a pottery-making village, where you can try your hand at creating your own ceramic piece—an activity that offers both fun and a lasting souvenir. Plus, the visit to Sfendoni Cave provides a magical underground adventure, and Axos village offers an authentic peek into local cheese-making traditions.

A potential downside? The tour involves several driving sections on winding mountain roads, so if you’re prone to travel sickness or prefer a more relaxed pace, it’s worth considering. This tour suits travelers who love a mix of history, craftsmanship, natural beauty, and local flavors—perfect for those wanting a well-rounded, memorable day in Crete.

Key Points

• Cultural and historical depth: Arkadi Monastery is a poignant symbol of resistance.
• Authentic Crete: Participate in local pottery and cheese-making traditions.
• Natural beauty: Sfendoni Cave offers impressive geological formations.
• Value for money: At around $48, it combines several experiences in one day.
• Guided insights: Knowledgeable guides share stories and legends that bring each site alive.
• Family-friendly: Activities like pottery and cheese-making appeal to a wide age range.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting bright and early, your day kicks off with hotel pickup, allowing you to relax and settle in as you head toward some of Crete’s most intriguing sites. The first stop, Arkadi Monastery, is more than just a religious site; it’s a place steeped in history. This monastery is renowned for its role in the island’s resistance against Ottoman rule. Here, you’ll walk among centuries-old icons and weapons, and learn about the monastery’s legend of sacrifice. Many reviews mention the guide’s detailed stories, which add depth to the visit. One reviewer from the UK commented on the friendly and informative guide, Helen, who made the history come alive with her stories about the resistance and the monastery’s significance.

Next, the tour takes you along a scenic route to Eleutherna, a charming spot where landscape views are plentiful and perfect for photo stops. The drive itself, with winding mountain roads, is a highlight—and a chance to appreciate Crete’s rugged beauty. Some travelers, like a reviewer from Australia, pointed out that the bus was a bit old and big for the group, but the driver’s skill in navigating narrow roads kept everyone comfortable.

Margarites: A Pottery Lover’s Dream

The village of Margarites is where tradition and craftsmanship shine. Known for its pottery heritage, this village offers a hands-on experience in a local pottery workshop. The women running the workshop are eager to share their craft, teaching you how to create your own ceramic piece. Reviewers have raved about how skilled and friendly the pottery artists are—Helen, in particular, was praised for her ability to make pottery seem easy, even for beginners.

This stop is not just about making a ceramic; it’s about understanding a craft passed down through generations. The experience provides a tangible connection to Crete’s artisanal culture, something we found truly valuable.

Exploring Sfendoni Cave

One of the most magical parts of the tour is Sfendoni Cave, located near Zoniana. This is a real hidden treasure, stretching over 1,400 meters underground. As you walk through illuminated chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites, you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a natural cathedral. The guided tour reveals geological formations and local legends, which adds a storytelling element to the natural spectacle.

Travelers have expressed admiration for the cave’s beauty and the informative nature of the guides. The hour you spend exploring allows ample time to soak in the stunning formations and snap photos of the natural sculptures that have taken thousands of years to form.

Axos: A Taste of Local Life

Before heading back, the tour makes a stop at Axos Village. Here, you get a close-up look at traditional cheese production—an authentic Cretan experience. You’ll see the cheese-making process firsthand, participate in milking goats, and taste homemade cheese pies and other local snacks. Reviews mention how engaging the process is, with one traveler noting how much fun it was to feed the baby goats and watch the cheese-making demonstration, which made the experience feel genuine and unscripted.

The snacks served are homemade, offering a true slice of local life, and are often praised for their freshness and flavor. This stop encapsulates the tour’s goal of providing a connection to Crete’s everyday traditions.

Returning to Rethymno

After a relaxed time at Axos, you’ll head back to your hotel, full of new knowledge, beautiful sights, and tasty flavors. The overall experience is about 8 hours long, with transportation by bus covering all the major stops in comfort. The inclusion of homemade snacks and a knowledgeable guide makes the journey feel both educational and enjoyable.

What The Reviews Say & Practical Tips

Many travelers have expressed their appreciation for the guides’ knowledge and their friendly, approachable manner. One review from a family mentions how they loved the variety of activities, from exploring caves to participating in cheese-making, which kept everyone entertained—including teenagers and older family members.

A common note is the value for money—especially considering the full itinerary and local experiences included. At roughly $48 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Crete’s heritage, art, and natural wonders. However, some reviews pointed out that the bus could be more modern and comfortable, especially for longer drives. If you’re sensitive to bus comfort, this is worth considering.

The timing is generally well-organized, with enough time at each stop to explore without feeling rushed. The cave visit, in particular, is a highlight, providing a cool, mystic adventure in the depths of the earth.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for history buffs, craft enthusiasts, and nature lovers eager to see Crete beyond the beaches. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions and are interested in authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. Families and small groups will appreciate the varied activities, especially the hands-on pottery and cheese-making.

If you’re after a relaxed day without many physical challenges, note the winding mountain roads. But if you love a packed day full of diverse sights and stories, this tour hits the mark. It also offers good value, with multiple memorable experiences bundled into one trip.

FAQ

Is there an age limit for participating in the activities?
While there’s no specific age restriction, activities like cheese-making and pottery are suitable for all ages, and children typically enjoy feeding goats and participating in hands-on crafts. Always check with the tour provider if you have very young children.

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, the prices listed for Arkadi Monastery (€4) and Sfendoni Cave (€5) are not included in the main tour fee. You’ll need to pay these on-site.

How long is the drive between stops?
The entire day involves some driving on winding mountain roads, with stops at each site. The drive between Arkadi and Margarites, for example, offers scenic views, and the total travel time is manageable within the 8-hour schedule.

Is vegetarian food available at the lunch stop?
The tour includes homemade snacks and a set meal at Axos, but specific dietary options aren’t detailed. If you have dietary restrictions, it’s good to inform the tour provider in advance.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially for cave exploration and walking around villages. Bring a hat, sun protection, and a light jacket in case it’s chilly inside the cave.

Is transportation suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Winding mountain roads and uneven ground at some sites might pose challenges. It’s best to check with the provider if you have specific mobility concerns.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Rethymno offers a well-rounded glimpse into Crete’s authentic character, blending history, craft, natural beauty, and local flavors in a single package. The knowledgeable guides and diverse activities ensure a memorable experience that caters to a variety of interests. While the bus comfort and the mountain roads might not suit everyone, the cultural richness and natural spectacle make it a worthwhile journey.

Perfect for those wanting to see the “heart” of Crete beyond the coastal resorts, this trip delivers a taste of traditional life, stunning underground sights, and stories that stick with you long after the day ends. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a craft lover, or simply curious about local life, this tour makes a compelling case for exploring Crete’s less-traveled roads.

In summary, if you’re after a meaningful, active, and authentic Crete experience on a budget, this tour will deliver more than just sightseeing—it’s a window into the island’s soul.